Board of Directors
Who We Are
Chocolatté Miller, CHRM
He/Him
President & Founder
Chocolatté has held several business management roles over the past two decades ranging from human resources management, to AR/AP accounting, corporate compliance, federal project management, property management, healthcare services management, brand/event management, organizational policy governance and many others in a volunteer capacity.
He obtained his certification in Human Resources Management in 2014 from George Mason University.
He has been an advocate in the DC LGBT+ community for over fifteen years working alongside several local nonprofit organizations in support of equality and the needs for those of lower income status.
Chocolatté started Safe Place on May second of 2022. After personally experiencing being a victim of domestic violence and homelessness he conducted research related to housing, specifically as a victim of domestic violence. He found that services in support of this need were not accessible in the area. In this discovery, Safe Place was established purely out of frustration of the major lack in support for DC area LGBT+ adult victims experiencing the same or similar issues.
Melvin Moore Adams
He/Him
Vice-Chair
February 2023 - April 2026
Lauren Silverstone
She/Her
Secretary
April 2024 - April 2027
Lauren Silverstone is a dedicated fair housing advocate and professional with a strong background in social services, notably in housing support. She serves as the Director of Housing Support Services at Maryland Inclusive Housing and leverages over 11 years of professional experience.
Originally from Silver Spring, Maryland Lauren's commitment to her community is deeply rooted. She pursued her education in Maryland, earning a B.A. in Psychology from UMBC and an M.A. in Human Sciences from Hood College.
It was during her time as a Residential Coordinator at Interfaith Works that she first recognized the critical intersection between affordable housing and healthcare, observing firsthand the challenges individuals faced due to inadequate housing options. Transitioning into a Service Coordinator role, Lauren gained invaluable practical experience in case management, honing her skills in assisting individuals facing housing insecurity. Her tenure working in the Housing Initiative Program further solidified her expertise, where she provided vital case management services to those with chronic medical conditions experiencing homelessness. Her responsibilities included facilitating access to suitable housing, navigating rental subsidies, and connecting clients with essential services and community resources.
Her commitment to social justice extends to her advocacy for animal rescue and pet adoption. Outside of work, Lauren enjoys immersing herself in literature, theatre, and live music.
Scott Powell
He/Him
Treasurer/Comptroller Elect
June 2024 - May 2027
Tanesha M. Jones
She/Her
Member At-Large,
Corporate Regulatory Compliance
March 2023 - April 2026
Tiffany Rowe
She/Her
General Counsel
March 2024 - April 2027
A senior litigator and corporate compliance adviser, Tiffany's legal practice focuses on representing companies and individuals in federal and state securities litigation, private investment offering disputes, regulatory inquiries, and enforcement actions. She regularly counsels clients on corporate governance standards and board fiduciary duty. Tiffany also advises executive management and boards of directors on internal compliance policies and procedures related to accounting and financial matters, cybersecurity and data privacy, and independence requirements.
Tiffany is passionate about serving the DC areas LGBTQ community and lends her legal counsel to Safe Place as General Counsel. She applies her legal acumen to the daily business activities so that our mission can be met by finding and maintaining non-discriminatory and safe housing for those who need it.
Tiffany received her J.D, summa cum laude and first in class, from the Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law.
Luis Alvarado
He/Him
Member At-Large,
Advocacy Special Projects
December 2023 - April 2027
Luis Alvarado has committed over 7 years of his professional career to the nonprofit world. From case management for immigrant and underserved populations to supporting public schools’ wellness team initiatives in Northwest and Northeast sectors of the city. Luis completed his undergraduate education at Towson University (Towson, MD) and holds 2 bachelor’s degrees: one in International Relations and one French Literature.
Feeling deeply invested in a social change model, Luis currently works for the National PTA in Alexandria, Virginia. Serving as a Programs Specialist, his priority is implementing mental health and physical health programming for over 500 students grade K through 12th. Being exposed to the disparities affecting families inside and outside the classroom, Luis aspires in pursuing a master’s degree in social work and continuing his efforts in supporting DC residents at risk of chronic homelessness and severe depression.
Joining the Safe Place Board of Directors in December 2023, Luis hopes to provide a significant engagement and build meaningful relationships with public health centers, housing organizations, and proficient stakeholders to magnify Safe Place’s presence and representation in the LGBT+ community. He is honored to be an ally to this mission and learning how to best empower Safe Place staff in achieving success.
202.800.6755 || Luis.Alvarado@safeLGBTplace.org
Our Meeting Minutes
Fiscal Year 2023
July 20th (Under Review)
November (Meeting not Scheduled for the Month)
Emergency Meeting - November 19th